6 Benefits of Raised Garden Beds for Vegetables

Whether you are an avid gardener or just getting your feet wet, there is a pretty good chance you have heard of raised garden beds. But did you know that raised garden beds aren’t that difficult to make, and the benefits are plentiful?

1. Drainage is superior. Building your garden bed above the surrounding ground helps solve drainage problems, which allows for your crops to grow more efficiently.
2. Keeps roots away from contaminated soil. When you plant in normal soil, there is always a chance some of the soil is contaminated and your garden won’t grow properly. With raised garden beds, you put in your own soil, ensuring it is all nutrient-rich.
3. Keeps out some critters. Making your bed at least 12 inches deep will keep some pesky critters away from your garden. That means you won’t wake up in the morning with your veggies nibbled on by a rabbit.
4. Can help with back problems. Kneeling to take care of your garden can put a lot of strain on your back. By raising your garden, you can make it so you don’t have to kneel down as far.
5. Planting can be done earlier. Gardening seasons are dependent on the temperature of the soil. Because the soil in your raised garden will warm up quicker than the ground underneath your lawn, you are able to plant your garden earlier than if you waited for the ground to thaw.
6. Higher yields. The soil used in raised garden beds tends to have a higher amount of nutrients, which results in a higher yield of vegetables for your family.

If you have never made a raised garden bed, you may want to do some research online before you start. Cedar wood is a great material for the frame because it is naturally rot resistant. Also, before putting in the soil, it is wise to place cardboard on the ground to act as a temporary weed barrier. For the soil itself, you can use a mixture of topsoil, compost, and other organic materials to provide the plants a nutrient-rich start.

A raised garden bed can be a great activity for the whole family. Not only is building the bed fun, but harvesting the veggies is even more fun! If you have built a raised garden bed, are there other tips or ideas you can share?